Russia Signals Readiness for Venezuela Talks with US, Including Oil Cooperation

Russia Proposes Dialogue on Venezuela

On January 14, 2026, Dmitry Novikov, the First Deputy Chairman of the Committee on International Affairs of the State Duma, announced Russia's willingness to engage in discussions with the United States regarding the situation in Venezuela. Novikov, a prominent figure from the Communist Party of the Russian Federation (CPRF), indicated that potential cooperation in the oil sector would be on the agenda during an upcoming parliamentary event between the two nations. He conveyed this position in an interview with Izvestia.

Novikov's Role and Russia's Stance

Dmitry Novikov has served as a deputy in the State Duma since 2016 and is known for his critical views on U.S. foreign policy and his advocacy for Russia's sovereignty. He has been subject to international sanctions by the United States, United Kingdom, and European Union due to his support for Russia's actions in Ukraine. Russia has historically maintained strong strategic ties with Venezuela, often positioning itself as a staunch supporter of the former Maduro administration. The proposed parliamentary meeting is also expected to address the resolution of the conflict in Ukraine, according to US Representative Anna Paulina Luna.

Venezuela's Evolving Political Landscape

The announcement from Moscow comes amidst significant upheaval in Venezuela. On January 3, 2026, former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was captured by U.S. special forces and subsequently transported to New York to face narcotrafficking charges. Following his capture, Delcy Rodríguez, who previously served as Vice President under Maduro, was sworn in as the acting president on January 6, 2026. U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the United States would 'run' Venezuela temporarily, citing access to Venezuelan oil as a primary motivation for the intervention. This intervention has been met with strong condemnation from Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, who described the U.S. operation as a 'blatant violation of international law' and urged the United States to reconsider its actions. The country continues to grapple with a severe humanitarian crisis, with millions requiring assistance and many having fled.

Russia's Enduring Oil Interests in Venezuela

Russia's engagement with Venezuela has long included substantial cooperation in the energy sector. Russian state-owned company Roszarubezhneft continues to manage Russia's oil assets in Venezuela and has affirmed its intention to proceed with operations, despite claims from the U.S. regarding control over Venezuelan oil. Russia has provided crucial technology and expertise for oil extraction in Venezuela, and both nations coordinate within the OPEC+ framework to stabilize global energy markets. This partnership is viewed by Moscow as a strategic move to exert influence in the Western Hemisphere and secure a foothold in the region.

Outlook for Future Discussions

While Russia has expressed its readiness for dialogue, the specifics of the parliamentary meeting, including its format, the composition of delegations, and exact dates, are still under discussion. The willingness to discuss Venezuela, particularly oil cooperation, signals a potential avenue for diplomatic engagement between Moscow and Washington amid heightened tensions and significant geopolitical shifts in Latin America.